Be on guard against these heat-related diseases

With the mercury shooting up like never before, people in Kerala are vulnerable to several diseases. The most dangerous of them all is jaundice, which is a silent killer. Any lethargy shown in dealing with the disease could prove fatal. Jaundice spreads mainly through water. To prevent the disease, the following measures could be adopted:

Carry our super chlorination of wells and other water sources

Drink only water boiled for 20 minutes and cooled

Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water before and after eating. Do this before and after ablutions also

Seek prompt medical care. Ensure total rest

Practise personal hygiene

Avoid alcohol

Do not use commercially produced ice

If tested negative for Hepatitis A, check for Hepatitis E

Other health issues

All districts of the state are experiencing extreme heat since the beginning of March. The main health problems caused by such weather conditions are:

Sunstroke

When the mercury rises beyond a certain level, the temperature control mechanism of the body gets damaged. As a result, the body becomes incapable of ejecting heat and several vital functions are affected.

Signs of sunstroke

Very high body temperature

Body becomes dry and takes on a reddish appearance

Pulse becomes feeble

Severe headache

Dizziness

The victim may lose consciousness

Heat exhaustion

It is the condition in which the body loses its water content as well as the salts and minerals through sweat. People working in the sun, elderly citizens and those having high blood pressure and similar diseases are most vulnerable.

Measures to be adopted

Move from an area of direct sunlight to a cool place

Wipe the body with cold water

Drink plenty of water

If wearing thick clothes, remove them

Rush to hospital

Sun burns

Parts of the body directly exposed to the sun may become reddish and swellings may appear. Sometimes, pain may be felt and burns could develop. In some cases, boils are also seen.

Muscle cramps

Cramps develop in the muscles of the limbs and the area near the stomach as a result of dehydration

To tackle this condition, drink rice gruel with a pinch of salt, lemon juice and tender coconut water

Heat swellings

Children are most susceptible to this condition. It develops when the child scratches the areas of the body where excessive sweating occurs. Neck and upper part of the chest are common places where the swellings develop. Keep these areas always dry for prevention.